mineral

Amethyst (Tumbled)

Amethyst (Silicon Dioxide with Iron impurities), SiO2

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple to violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Purple to violet
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Purple to violet; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and geodes, typically through the irradiation of iron impurities within quartz crystals. Found in volcanic rocks and metamorphic environments.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry, decorative items, healing crystals, and as a popular collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Amethyst was once considered one of the five cardinal gems until large deposits were found in Brazil. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek 'amethystos', meaning 'not intoxicated'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic purple transparency and lack of inclusions if high quality. Commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. In the field, look for hexagonal crystal points in geode cavities.

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